Tesco coming to Skibbereen?

Speculation in this week’s Southern Star suggests that Tesco may be involved in discussions with Skibbereen Town Council regarding a new store in the former “Fair Field” in the centre of town. The speculation is attributed to comments by councillor Adrian Healy, who is quoted as saying “there was also a lot of speculation that the land at Cork Road, which is owned by Tesco, could be used for the proposed amalgamated school if that company was given an alternative site”

While any such proposal would be welcome froma jobs point of view, it is unlikely to be welcomed froma parking point of view. Whichever town in South West Cork is first to have a Tesco store will become the shopping capital of the region, however Skibbereen’s main asset at present is an abundance of free parking and such a development would diminish that asset significantly.

Also, Dunnes Stores or Musgrave/Fields are unlikely to stand by and see Tesco handed such a lucrative site in a sweetheart deal whetever the plans for the land currently owned by tesco.